Downtown Streetscape Improvements

Naperville’s downtown has been built with various standards and streetscape designs incorporated at different times throughout its history. Streetscapes have generally been improved on a development level with a handful of City-led projects, such as the 1978 Jefferson Avenue streetscape improvements.

The proposed project will rebuild sections of the downtown streetscape to standards endorsed by the Downtown Advisory Commission and approved by City Council on June 4, 2019. Work to begin the first phase of improvements is tentatively scheduled to begin in spring of 2020 and will include complete road reconstruction, streetscape work and utility and pavement upgrades for Jefferson Avenue, Main Street and Jackson Avenue. The new design will also change the existing angled parking on Main Street and Jefferson Avenue to parallel parking. These updates will improve pedestrian mobility, accessibility and safety in this area.

Timeline

The start of construction is tentatively scheduled for March 2020, with a goal to complete construction by Fall 2020.

Public Involvement

TED staff, along with the project consultant Civiltech Engineering, Inc., hosted two public input sessions on Wednesday, September 4 to share preliminary designs for the Downtown Streetscape Project improvements and allow businesses and residents to provide feedback on their preferred design.

Attendees had the opportunity to review three preliminary project designs and traffic alternatives and share feedback with City and Civiltech representatives about their preferred options during the open house-style events. Those unable to attend a public input session may send feedback to nicholsc@naperville.il.us until September 18.

Following the open house, City staff and the consultant will review the feedback received, which will be considered when choosing the final streetscape design. Information about future public input sessions will be communicated when dates and times are finalized.

Impact

These improvements will be phased to minimize disruption to the downtown business district and nearby residents. Pedestrian access to the businesses fronting the work zone will be maintained during normal business hours for the duration of the project.

Information about specific impacts will be forthcoming when the design plan and timeline are finalized.